.22 WMR-Magnum Ammo

Ballistics Overview

The .22 WMR fires a 30–50 grain bullet at 1,530–1,875 fps depending on bullet weight, producing 100–300 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. This is approximately three times the energy of standard .22 LR and meaningfully extends effective small game range. A 40-grain hollow point load zeroed at 100 yards drops about 3 inches at 125 yards—well within practical hunting range for most rimfire applications. The flat trajectory and increased energy make it a step up from .22 LR for any application where range or terminal performance matters.

Hunting Applications

The .22 WMR is well-suited for squirrel, rabbit, fox, and prairie dog hunting inside 125 yards. Hollow point loads from CCI, Hornady, and Federal expand reliably at .22 WMR velocities and deliver clean kills on small game. The 40-grain load is the most common all-around choice; lighter 30-grain loads run faster and are preferred for varmint work where a flatter trajectory is beneficial. For rimfire hunting past 100 yards, the .22 WMR is a meaningful step up from .22 LR in both energy and trajectory.

.22 WMR vs. .22 LR

The .22 WMR is not interchangeable with .22 LR—they are different cartridges requiring different chambers. .22 WMR costs significantly more per round than .22 LR and is not available in the same bulk quantities, making it less practical for high-volume practice. If your primary need is inexpensive practice and plinking inside 75 yards, .22 LR remains the better choice. The .22 WMR earns its premium when you need more energy, flatter trajectory, or extended range beyond what .22 LR can reliably deliver.

.22 WMR vs. .17 HMR

The .17 HMR and .22 WMR occupy similar niches but with different strengths. The .17 HMR fires a lighter, faster bullet with a flatter trajectory and less wind drift—advantages for varmint hunting at distance. The .22 WMR delivers more energy per round and a heavier bullet, which some hunters prefer for clean kills on larger small game like fox or jackrabbit. Both are based on the .22 WMR case; the .17 HMR is simply a .22 WMR case necked down to .17 caliber. See our .17 HMR page for comparison.

Compatible Platforms

The .22 WMR chambers in a wide selection of bolt-action and semi-automatic rimfire rifles and revolvers. Popular .22 WMR rifles include the Ruger 77/22 Magnum, CZ 455/457, and Savage B-Mag. Several revolvers are chambered in .22 WMR, and some platforms offer interchangeable cylinders for both .22 LR and .22 WMR. Note that .22 WMR does not chamber in firearms designed for .22 LR; always confirm your firearm’s chambering before purchasing ammunition.

Frequently Asked Questions: .22 WMR

What is .22 WMR used for?
The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR, also called .22 Magnum) is a rimfire cartridge significantly more powerful than .22 LR — firing a 30–50 grain bullet at 1,530–2,200 fps versus .22 LR’s 40 grain at 1,200 fps. This makes it effective for varmints, small game, and pest control at ranges out to 125 yards. Several compact concealed carry revolvers are chambered in .22 WMR for shooters who want a light-recoiling defensive option.

Can a .22 WMR rifle also shoot .22 LR?
No — .22 WMR and .22 LR are not interchangeable despite similar nomenclature. The .22 WMR uses a longer, wider case than .22 LR. Never attempt to chamber .22 LR in a .22 WMR firearm. Some rifles (Savage Model 42, Henry Combo) have interchangeable barrels for both calibers; otherwise a dedicated barrel is required for each.

How does .22 WMR compare to .17 HMR?
The .17 HMR fires a lighter bullet faster with a flatter trajectory and less wind drift — advantages for varmint hunting at distance. The .22 WMR delivers more energy with a heavier bullet, better suited for larger small game like rabbits and raccoons where clean kills require more bullet weight. For prairie dogs at 100+ yards, .17 HMR; for general small game hunting, .22 WMR is the more versatile choice.

See Also: .22 LR • .17 HMR • Rimfire Ammo • .22 Rifles • Revolvers